Nine Most Memorable Movie Moments of 2006

As 2006 comes to a close, I have to admit that I have recently learned that life can not be effectively categorized into lists of bests and worsts. Instead, life in all its facets is made up of experiences that resonate within you but don’t necessarily rank among your bests or worsts.

In that spirit, I’ve decided to post here a list of not my favorite or best movies of the year, but moments in film that have been the most memorable for me. Yes, I picked nine. Ten’s an overrated number. I’ll try and keep this spoiler-free, but no promises, okay?

Dave Chappelle’s Block Party
Wyclef Jean sitting at a piano and singing “If I Were President” with students from CSU was the perfect addition to a film that was not only about the greatest party ever thrown, but also about the triumph of the human spirit.

Thank You For Smoking
Adam Brody was the perfect arse-kissing assistant to the big movie producer. His description of the fish in the pond was priceless: “Yep, kinda makes you wanna stop eating sushi, but I guess you kinda have to.”

Snakes on a Plane
I really don’t even have to tell you the one scene that stuck out during this movie, which in general was just a huge pile of awesomeness. Samuel L. Jackson will always be remembered as the man that was tired of those muthaf**kin’ snakes.

United 93
This movie was remarkably hard to watch, and I don’t think I could ever watch it again. Every single scene in the movie had a profound impact on me, but it all culminated with one moment in the film that came right at the end: the simple title card that said “Dedicated to the memory of all those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001.”

Prag
I know you probably haven’t seen this film, but it’s one of my favorites of the year. There’s a scene where Mads Mikkelsen and Stine Stengade get in a fight in the middle of a urban street that perfectly encapsulates the feeling of a man who has to let go of a woman he’s still in love with.

Babel
Everyone knows it: the scene where Rinko Kikuchi — playing the deaf and mute Chieko — enters the nightclub on ecstasy may be the most inspired piece of film-making in the past decade. Absolutely brilliant.

Little Miss Sunshine
Yes, that last dance scene was fantastic, but in all honesty, the most memorable scene in this movie is when Paul Dano finally breaks down and runs out of the car and breaks his vow of silence. Such raw emotion, and still so funny. Perfect.

The Last Kiss
Zach Braff lying on the porch in the rain may just be the ultimate demonstration of remorse and love and apology ever captured on film.

Casino Royale
The best quote in any movie all year…
Bond to Bartender: Vodka-martini.
Bartender to Bond: Shaken or stirred?
Bond to Bartender: Does it look like I give a damn?

Oh, and I just realized what day it is. Merry Christmas everyone!